Colorado Avalanche right wing Peter Mueller (88) controls the puck in front of Anaheim Ducks defenseman Toni Lydman (32) during the third period February 27, 2012 at Pepsi Center. John Leyba, The Denver Post

Peter Mueller will be in the Avalanche lineup tonight — albeit on the fourth line.

Mueller, one of the team’s most skilled forwards, will take Chuck Kobasew’s spot in the lineup when the Avs host the last-place Columbus Blue Jackets at the Pepsi Center. Mueller will skate with Cody McLeod and Jay McClement.

The Avs can move into sole possession of eighth place in the Western Conference with two points tonight.

“I’m there wherever the coach puts me. I want to play,” said Mueller, who returned from an injured torso in the Avs’ victory over Anaheim Monday night. “I’m just going to try and make the most of the opportunity I’m given.”

Kobasew suffered a back injury at Wednesday’s practice, and is considered out on a day-to-day basis, coach Joe Sacco said.

Mueller lost his spot on the upper lines following his injury and the emergence of newcomer Steve Downie, who has seven points in his first four games with the Avs since coming from Tampa Bay.

“But he’ll be on one of our power-play units and I expect good things from Peter,” Sacco said.

The Avs will see the debut of their latest newcomer, Jamie McGinn, who will skate at left wing on a line with Mark Olver and David Jones.

“Much like with Downie, we’re looking for energy from Jamie McGinn,” Sacco said. “We’re looking for a strong physical player and to really create havoc on the forecheck, to use his size and be abrasive, hard to play against.”

Sacco said McGinn will see some time on the penalty-killing units as well. The Avs lost two forwards — Daniel Winnik and TJ Galiardi — who often played on the PK.

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